Johannesburg - ActionSA has confirmed that its Tshwane human settlements MMC Abel Tau is undergoing disciplinary processes following allegations of sexual misconduct reported in the media.
This comes after reports Tau has been formally charged with attempted sexual assault, and that he would be appearing in court early next year.
There have been allegations that he had attempted to rape his friend’s wife.
Reports emerged over the weekend that more women had come forward complaining that they were also sexually violated by Tau.
The Star understands that several of the victims were members of ActionSA.
Tau had denied these allegations and taken special leave at the surfacing of these allegations two weeks ago. He had said taking leave would be part of a process to clear his name.
But yesterday the party announced that Tau was under a disciplinary process in the party related to the sexual misconduct allegations.
ActionSA’s national chairperson, Michael Beaumont, said he had noted media reports concerning the matter.
“At this point, we can confirm that the disciplinary process initiated by ActionSA’s senate is well under way, and that all parties have expressed an interest in the matter being expedited,” Beaumont said.
He said ActionSA in particular was cognisant of the urgency of coming to a determination in the matter.
“Allegations of this nature are extraordinarily serious, and organisations have a duty to ensure that findings are made and, where it is found necessary, the appropriate steps are taken.”
“Our disciplinary panel has indicated that the matter will be concluded this week, after which ActionSA will be at liberty to communicate a finding,” Beaumont said.
Some members of the party in Tshwane have called on Tau to step down to save the party from further bad press.
Tau had told the media that he was under political attack, and that the allegations levelled against him had no merit. He claimed that under his leadership the Tshwane human settlements department had done a sterling job of delivering services to the residents of the city.
The Star